GREENEVILLE — Dr. Scott Hummel is hitting the ground running as he begins his presidency at Tusculum University, and one of his immediate priorities will be meeting with members of the community.
When the clock struck midnight Monday, Feb. 17, Dr. Hummel assumed the presidency of Tennessee’s first higher education institution. He succeeded Dr. Greg Nelson, who had served as acting president since August.
“Tusculum has served our region and the higher education community with distinction for 225 years, and I am honored to be president of this exceptional institution,” Dr. Hummel said. “We have an impressive story to share as a faith-based university that prepares our students to lead successful, civically engaged lives. I look forward to partnering with everyone in our region, expanding on longtime relationships we have cultivated and developing new friendships.”
Dr. Hummel will hold a meet-and-greet on the Greeneville campus Wednesday, Feb. 19, with faith leaders from East Tennessee. The 9 a.m. event in the dining room next to the Tusculum cafeteria will enable Dr. Hummel to share Tusculum’s commitment to provide a comprehensive education in a Judeo-Christian environment.
Afterward, Dr. Hummel will attend the Theologian-In-Residence series presentation in the Chalmers Conference Center. Theologian-In-Residence, now in its 29th year, invites the public to Tusculum for insightful lectures and discussions.
From noon-1 p.m. Monday, March 2, Tusculum will host a meet-and-greet for community members throughout the region. That event will take place in the Brotherton Boardroom on the third floor of the Meen Center on the Greeneville campus. Anyone interested in attending should contact Nicole Rader, development officer and director of special events, at 423-636-7303 or nrader@tusculum.edu.
Dr. Hummel will also attend multiple Chamber of Commerce functions in East Tennessee early in his presidency so he can meet as many people as possible.
“It is important for all of us at Tusculum to focus considerable attention on interacting with the community,” said Tom Wennogle, chairman of Tusculum’s Board of Trustees. “Working in tandem with residents throughout the region, we will be able to accomplish so much more. We have many alumni and supporters in East Tennessee, and we want all of them, and others, to know how much we value our community ties.”
In addition to his community interactions, Dr. Hummel will have a busy schedule with the Tusculum family. He will take time early in his presidency to meet with students, as well as faculty and staff members, at all three Tusculum locations.